Document format
What is a .rtf file?
RTF (Rich Text Format) is a document format from Microsoft that stores text with basic formatting using plain text codes. Almost every word processor opens it.
It keeps bold, lists and fonts, but not complex layouts. Microsoft stopped developing it in 2008.
fileclay opens and writes RTF
RTF vs DOCX vs TXT
| RTF | DOCX | TXT | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Formatting | Basic | Full | None |
| Images | Yes, heavy | Yes | No |
| Opens in | Almost any word processor | Word processors | Anything |
| Best for | Simple exchange between apps | Formatted documents | Notes |
When to use RTF
Good for
- Moving formatted text between different programs
- Very old software
- Simple letters
Not a good fit
- Documents with images: files grow a lot
- Complex layouts
- New documents: DOCX or ODT do more
How to open .rtf files
| Platform | App | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Windows | WordPad, Word | WordPad depends on the Windows version |
| macOS | TextEdit | Built in |
| Any system | LibreOffice Writer | Free |
Convert RTF files
How to identify a .rtf file
An RTF starts with the text “{\rtf”. The whole file can be read in a text editor.
7B{
5C\
72r
74t
66f
It’s read here, in your browser. Only the first bytes.
Your file
Questions about RTF
Is RTF better than DOCX?
Only for compatibility with old software. DOCX keeps much more.
Can RTF contain images?
Yes, but they make the file much larger.
Is RTF still used?
Less and less, though nearly every word processor still opens it.